About Us

We believe in helping international students adapt to the local community of Oahu—by providing the students perspective focusing on education, experiences, and sustainability.

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Our Vision

To inspire, promote, and simplify the moving process to the Hawaiian Island of Oahu by providing insights about the educational system, sustainability, and experiences on the island. With the intention to help international students to adapt seamlessly into the local community in a safe and credible way.

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Our Mission

To encourage students to take the step and Try Out the Waters by providing valuable resources. Making it easier for each student to enjoy every moment surrounded by the tropical landscape, instead of drowning in the administrative stress.

Our Values

Dedicated

To inspire our visitors to Try Out the Waters

Sustainability

Giving back to the land and local community.

Transparency

To be open and create a supportive community for international students in Oahu.

Respect

Embracing diverse backgrounds and meeting individuals with respect and empathy.

Our Approach

To inspire students through stories

Try Out the Waters is determined to provide valuable insights that previous Scandinavian students wished they knew before traveling to Oahu.

Based on an

Experienced Adventure

Try Out the Waters was founded by Smilla Bakteman Hedlund, a senior at Hawaii Pacific University, who transferred from Santa Monica College in the fall of 2023 to pursue her bachelor’s degree in communication studies in the fall of 2023.

Questions?

It’s better to get answers than just wait for the solution to show up—don’t hesitate to contact us, and we will try to give answers to your unique needs!

We want to help you!

Stay Updated

Become a part of our community, and stay inspired by reading our posts.

Contact support

We would love to hear from you. Do you have any valuable insights that you would like to share? Let us know

Tryoutthewaters@gmail.com

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